Family Intervention for Psychosis(FIp)
Showing plain-language explanations suitable for anyone.
Overview
Family Intervention for psychosis is a structured therapy that supports families to reduce relapse risk and improve outcomes through psychoeducation, communication skills, and problem-solving.
What this therapy focuses on
Reducing high-stress interaction patterns (expressed emotion), improving family understanding of psychosis, creating relapse prevention plans, and strengthening supportive communication.
What sessions are usually like
Session length: 60–90 minutes
Time-limited programmes: 10–20 sessions
May include single-family or multi-family group formats
Includes the person with psychosis and key family members
Session profile
Common uses and suitability
What problems it is commonly used for
Who this therapy may suit best
- Families of people with psychosis who want to understand and support recovery
- Where family relationships affect relapse risk
When it may need adapting or may not be suitable
- Acute psychosis without stabilisation
- Domestic violence within the family
Where this therapy may not be enough
FIp is designed as an adjunct to other psychosis treatments. Not a standalone intervention.
What happens in therapy
Psychoeducation
Learning about psychosis together as a family — what it is, how it affects people, and what helps recovery.
Communication Skills Training
Practising ways of communicating that support recovery rather than adding stress.
Evidence Base
Guideline support
Strong. NICE CG178 recommends family intervention for all people with psychosis.
Strength of evidence
Moderate to strong for relapse reduction. Multiple meta-analyses demonstrate significant reductions in relapse rates.
Limitations
Fidelity matters. Engagement can be challenging. Service capacity is often limited.
Evidence claims by condition
Family intervention helps reduce the risk of psychosis relapse by improving family understanding and communication.
Resources & Printables
For Parents & Caregivers
Psychoeducation Pack
A family-friendly guide to understanding psychosis.
Communication Scripts
Scripts for constructive family communication.
Problem-Solving Steps
A structured problem-solving guide for families.
Relapse Prevention Plan
A family relapse prevention plan template.
Practitioner & Training Notes
Typical professional background
Mental health professionals (psychologists, nurses, social workers) with family intervention training.
Recognised training routes
Family intervention training through NHS trusts and specialist training providers. Often part of early intervention in psychosis service training.
Registration considerations
Core professional registration plus FIp-specific training.
Source Registry
Link and cite.
Last evidence review: January 2026. All sources are verified and checked on a scheduled cadence.